There are several reasons or causes of contact lens discomfort. However, the good news is that easy solutions are available to alleviate contact lens discomfort.
- A pair of lenses that fit well is key: Contact lenses rest on the surface of your eyes and are buoyed by the tear film which consists of mucin, aqueous, and lipid layers. A thorough examination is conducted by an optometrist before prescribing the contact lenses. If the measurements of your eyes aren’t taken properly or/and is purchased online, the lens will not fit into your eyes (because then, the measurements won’t match the lens’s diameter and base curve). In such cases, it’s best to redo these measurements and get a pair of lenses that fits you well.
- Take care of the contact lens: It is essential to follow the right steps and in the correct order to maintain your contact lenses. Maintaining proper hygiene when it comes to using contact lenses is essential to avoid and alleviate discomfort. Avoid eye infection by learning more here.
- Use artificial tear eye drops: The way your contact lenses are resting on a thin film of tears on the cornea is imperative for contact lens comfort. If dry eyes are the cause of contact lens discomfort, then you should consider opting for artificial tear eye drops. These drops can alleviate discomfort from wearing contact lens by lubricating and smoothing out that thin film of tears on the cornea.
- Tear duct plug insertion: If your tear glands are not producing enough tears, it can cause dryness and/or itchiness in your eyes. In that case, artificial tear drops are not effective as a long-term solution to the discomfort. So, you may visit your eye doctor who may recommend the insertion of a punctual plug within the tear ducts to optimize tear production.
- Silicone hydrogel lens: If the cause of contact lens discomfort is accounted for by the material of the lens, then opt for a different type of lens. A silicone hydrogel lens is a great option as these types of contact lenses increase oxygen transmissibility and provide great comfort. A wearing hours of up to 10 hours is recommended for silicone hydrogel lens whereas 8 hours is the maximum wearing hours for hydrogel lenses.
- Nutrition is key: Your diet also impacts the chemical composition of your tears. If the composition isn’t perfect, dry eyes can occur. So, a well-balanced nutrient-rich diet with flaxseed oil and omega-3 fatty acids is essential.
Follow these useful tips to alleviate contact lens discomfort. Consult an eye doctor in case of any emergency.
